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The Oklahoma Exempt form, officially known as the Affidavit of Exempt Status under the Administrative Workers' Compensation Act, serves a crucial role for individuals and businesses seeking to clarify their status regarding workers' compensation requirements. Filing this form allows a business or individual to assert that they are not required to secure workers' compensation insurance, either due to their classification as an independent contractor or because they meet specific exemption criteria. To initiate this process, the form must be submitted to the Workers' Compensation Commission (WCC) along with a nonrefundable $50 filing fee. The affidavit, once approved, remains valid for two years before requiring renewal. Key components of the form include a declaration of understanding regarding the definitions of "employee" and "independent contractor," as well as an acknowledgment of the rights and responsibilities that come with the exemption. It is essential for filers to comprehend that while they may be exempt from workers' compensation insurance, they also forfeit eligibility for benefits under the act. Additionally, the form includes a series of statements affirming the truthfulness of the information provided, with penalties for falsification clearly outlined. Overall, the Oklahoma Exempt form is a pivotal document for those navigating the complexities of workers' compensation laws in the state.

Document Properties

Fact Name Description
Governing Law The Oklahoma Exempt Form is governed by the Administrative Workers' Compensation Act, specifically 85A O.S. §36.
Filing Fee A nonrefundable fee of $50 must accompany the form when filed with the Workers’ Compensation Commission.
Expiration Period Original affidavits expire two years from the filing date, while renewals expire two years from the previous expiration date.
Definition of Employee According to 85A O.S. §2(18), an "employee" includes any person in the service of an employer, with specific exceptions for casual employment.
Independent Contractor Status Individuals who qualify as independent contractors are not considered employees under the Administrative Workers' Compensation Act.
Legal Consequences Providing false information on the affidavit may lead to misdemeanor charges, with penalties including fines up to $1,000.

Common mistakes

  1. Incomplete Information: Failing to fill out all required fields can lead to delays or rejection of the form. Ensure that every section is completed, including the Affiant's name, title, and contact information.

  2. Incorrect Filing Fee: Submitting the wrong amount for the filing fee is a common mistake. The fee must be $50 and should not be paid by check. Use an acceptable payment method as specified in the instructions.

  3. Misunderstanding Status: Some individuals confuse their status as an independent contractor with that of an employee. It is crucial to understand the definitions provided in the form and the implications of claiming exempt status.

  4. Neglecting to Attach Required Documents: Not including the Exempt Status Fact Sheet can lead to complications. This document must be attached to the affidavit to ensure that the filing is valid.

  5. Failure to Sign: Omitting the Affiant's signature is a significant oversight. The affidavit must be signed to validate the claims made within it, affirming that the information provided is true.

  6. Ignoring Renewal Requirements: Individuals often forget to renew their affidavit before it expires. An original affidavit expires two years from the filing date, and failure to renew can result in loss of exempt status.

Misconceptions

  • Misconception 1: The Oklahoma Exempt form is only for large businesses.
  • This is not true. Any individual or business entity that meets the criteria outlined in the Administrative Workers' Compensation Act can submit the form, regardless of size.

  • Misconception 2: Filing the form guarantees exemption from all liabilities.
  • While the form can exempt a business from certain workers' compensation requirements, it does not absolve the business of all legal responsibilities. If circumstances change, businesses may still need to secure compensation.

  • Misconception 3: An independent contractor can never be considered an employee.
  • This is misleading. The classification depends on various factors, such as the degree of control exerted by the contractor. In some cases, independent contractors may be classified as employees if the nature of their work aligns with that definition.

  • Misconception 4: The affidavit must be renewed every year.
  • The affidavit is valid for two years from the filing date. After this period, it must be renewed to maintain exempt status.

  • Misconception 5: A business can submit the form without understanding its implications.
  • It is crucial for individuals and businesses to fully understand the definition of "employee" and the consequences of filing the affidavit. Ignorance can lead to unintended liabilities.

  • Misconception 6: The filing fee is refundable.
  • The $50 filing fee is nonrefundable. Businesses should be certain of their eligibility before submitting the affidavit.

  • Misconception 7: Providing false information on the affidavit is a minor issue.
  • This is a serious offense. Knowingly submitting false information can result in a misdemeanor charge, with penalties including fines and potential imprisonment.

  • Misconception 8: Once exempt, a business can never be required to obtain workers' compensation insurance.
  • If circumstances change, such as hiring employees, the business must secure workers' compensation insurance. The affidavit does not provide a permanent exemption from this requirement.

Preview - Oklahoma Exempt Form

THIS SPACE FOR COMMISSION USE ONLY

CC-FORM-36A

WORKERS’ COMPENSATION COMMISSION

 

1915 NORTH STILES AVENUE STE 231

File original and one (1) copy with the

OKLAHOMA CITY, OK 73105

Workers’ Compensation Commission

 

(WCC) in-person or by mail, or file online at

 

www.ok.gov/wcc.

AFFIDAVIT OF EXEMPT STATUS UNDER THE

Must be accompanied by a nonrefundable

$50 filing fee payable to the WCC.

ADMINISTRATIVE WORKERS' COMPENSATION ACT

CHECKS WILL NOT BE ACCEPTED.

 

Type of Filing (check one):  Original Affidavit of Exempt Status - Expires at midnight two (2) years from the filing date.

Renewal - Expires at midnight two (2) years from the expiration date indicated below.

If renewing a current Affidavit, provide: Affidavit # __________ and Expiration Date: _____________

I, ________________________________________, state under penalty of perjury, as follows:

1.I, ____________________________________ (Name of individual), in my individual capacity or operating as

_________________________________ (business name), have read, signed and attached the Exempt Status Fact Sheet and understand the definition of "employee" and specific exceptions to that definition found in 85A O.S. §2(18). I also understand that an Independent Contractor is one who engages to perform certain services for another, according to his own manner, method, free from control and direction of his contractor in all matters connected with the performance of the service, except as to the result or product of the work. A Contractor may be either (i) the owner of a project or job or (ii) an Independent Contractor in any tier who has subcontracted with a subcontractor.

2.I understand that based upon the representations in this Affidavit of Exempt Status ("Affidavit"), I am reques�ng that the recipient of this Affidavit consider my business to either (i) be exempt from the defini�on of “employee” or (ii) be that of an independent contractor, and that no workers' compensa�on insurance premium be charged for the services performed by my business. I do not want workers’ compensa�on insurance and understand that I am not eligible for workers’ compensa�on benefits.

3.In the event changed circumstances make securing compensation pursuant to the requirements of the Administrative Workers' Compensation Act necessary, I will execute and file a Cancellation of Affidavit of Exempt Status with the Workers' Compensation Commission. I will obtain workers’ compensation and employers’ liability insurance for my employees if I have employees, unless they are otherwise exempt from the requirements of the Administrative Workers’ Compensation Act.

4.The information I have provided is not the result of force, threats, coercion, compulsion or duress.

5.I understand that the execution of this Affidavit, if I am an independent contractor, shall establish a conclusive presumption that I am not an employee for purposes of the Administrative Workers’ Compensation Act.

6.I understand that the execution of this Affidavit shall not affect the rights or coverage of any employee of the individual or business executing this Affidavit.

7.I understand if any contractor or its insurer shall become liable under the Administrative Workers’ Compensation Act for the payment of compensation due to a compensable work related injury of my employee(s), the contractor or its insurer may recover from me the amount of such compensation paid or for which liability is incurred.

8.I understand that knowingly providing false information on an executed Affidavit of Exempt Status shall constitute a misdemeanor punishable by a fine not to exceed One Thousand Dollars ($1,000.00).

Affiant Signature

I declare under PENALTY OF PERJURY that I have examined all statements contained herein, and to the best of my knowledge and belief, they are true, correct and complete.

Affiant Name ______________________________________ Title ________________________ Phone _____________________

Business Name ____________________________________________________ Email ___________________________________

FEIN/EIN/TIN # _______________ Mailing Address ________________________________________________________________

Affiant Signature _________________________________________________________________ Date _____________________

Any person who commits workers’ compensation fraud, upon conviction, shall be guilty of a felony punishable by imprisonment, a fine or both.

It is a crime to falsify the information on this form.

Effective 1/2/19

EXEMPT STATUS FACT SHEET

Pursuant to 85A O.S., §36, any individual or business entity that is not required to secure compensation under the requirements of the Administrative Workers' Compensation Act (AWCA) may execute an Affidavit of Exempt Status. Those who are unsure as to whether they may lawfully submit an Affidavit of Exempt Status should seek competent legal advice.

Employee: 85A O.S., §2(18): The definition of "employee" includes any person, including minors, in the service of an employer under any contract of hire or apprenticeship, written or oral, expressed or implied. It excludes those whose employment is casual and not in the course of the trade, business, profession, or occupation of his or her employer. Additional, specific exceptions may be found in 85A O.S. §2(18)(b).

Independent Contractor: The AWCA does not define "independent contractor." Oklahoma law considers an independent contractor to be one who engages to perform certain services for another, according to his or her own manner and method, free from control and direction of his or her contractor in all matters connected with the performance of the service, except as to the result or product of the work. Independent Contractors are not “employees” for purposes of the AWCA.

Below are statements to help you decide if you are an independent contractor. No one statement is controlling, and your status is based on all the facts in your situation.

1.The nature of the contract between you and the contractor. For example: Is there a writen contract where you agree that you are an independent contractor? Are you a corpora�on or limited liability company? Do you maintain commercial general liability insurance or other business insurance?

2.The contractor exercises very litle control over your work. For example: By the agreement, can the contractor exercise control on the details of the work or your independence? Do you exercise control over most of the details of the work? Do you create plans or specifica�ons for the job? Do you set your own work hours?

3.You are engaged in a dis�nct occupa�on or business for others. For example: Do you work for companies or individuals other than the Contractor? Do you work for compe�tors of the Contractor? Does your business have a logo or uniform?

4.Your job is the kind of occupa�on where the work is usually performed by a specialist without supervision, and not under the direc�on of the contractor. For example: Does the Contractor supervise your work?

5.Your occupa�on requires special skills, license, educa�on or training.

6.The contractor does not supply the things needed to perform your job such as the tools and the place of work. For example: Do you supply any of the materials or tools for the work? Do you operate a vehicle owned by the contractor? Do you perform the work at your business or the contractor’s business loca�on or jobsite? Do you wear a uniform supplied by the contractor?

7.The length and dura�on of the job does not show that you are really an employee. For example: Is this a one-�me job, or will you be doing this for the contractor regularly?

8.You are paid as a separate contractor, not as an employee. For example: Do you invoice the Contractor for your services? Are you paid by the job? Do you file a federal income tax return for your business? Do you expect to receive an IRS Form 1099 from the Contractor? Does the Contractor pay your expenses?

9.Your work is not the regular business of the employer. For example: Is your work customarily done in the Contractor’s line of business or as part of the Contractor’s daily work? Have you ever been an employee of the Contractor? Do you work with other people hired by the Contractor on the work you perform?

10.You do not consider yourself an employee of the contractor. For example: Will the Contractor withhold taxes or monies from your payment? Have you ever been an employee of the Contractor? Have you or your employees ever filed an insurance claim against the Contractor?

11.You do not have the right to terminate the rela�onship without liability. For example: If you quit before the job is finished, is there a penalty?

It is a crime to falsify the information on this form.

Effective 1/2/19

FAQ

What is the Oklahoma Exempt form?

The Oklahoma Exempt form, also known as the Affidavit of Exempt Status, is a document that allows individuals or businesses to declare their exemption from workers' compensation insurance under the Administrative Workers' Compensation Act. By filing this form, you state that you are either not considered an employee or qualify as an independent contractor.

Who needs to file the Oklahoma Exempt form?

How do I file the Oklahoma Exempt form?

You can file the form in person or by mail with the Workers’ Compensation Commission in Oklahoma City. Additionally, you have the option to file online at www.ok.gov/wcc. Remember to include a nonrefundable $50 filing fee with your submission.

What is the filing fee for the Oklahoma Exempt form?

The filing fee is $50. This fee must be paid to the Workers’ Compensation Commission and is nonrefundable. Note that checks will not be accepted as payment.

How long is the exemption valid?

The exemption is valid for two years from the date of filing. If you need to continue your exempt status, you will need to renew the form before it expires.

What happens if my circumstances change?

If your situation changes and you need workers' compensation coverage, you must file a Cancellation of Affidavit of Exempt Status with the Workers' Compensation Commission. You will then need to obtain workers’ compensation and employers’ liability insurance if you have employees.

What are the consequences of providing false information?

Providing false information on the Oklahoma Exempt form is a serious matter. It can result in criminal charges, including a misdemeanor punishable by a fine up to $1,000. Additionally, committing workers’ compensation fraud can lead to felony charges, which may include imprisonment.

Can I still be considered an employee if I file this form?

What should I do if I have questions about my eligibility?

If you are unsure about your eligibility to file the Oklahoma Exempt form, it is advisable to seek legal advice. A legal professional can help clarify your status and ensure you are making the right decision.

What information do I need to provide on the form?

You will need to provide your name, business name (if applicable), contact information, and any relevant identification numbers, such as your FEIN, EIN, or TIN. Additionally, you must confirm that you understand the definitions of "employee" and "independent contractor" as outlined in the law.

Documents used along the form

When navigating the complexities of workers' compensation in Oklahoma, it's essential to understand various documents that often accompany the Oklahoma Exempt form. Each of these documents plays a critical role in ensuring compliance with state regulations and protecting the rights of all parties involved. Below is a list of key forms and documents that may be utilized alongside the Oklahoma Exempt form.

  • Affidavit of Cancellation of Exempt Status: This document is filed when an individual or business decides to revoke their exempt status. It informs the Workers' Compensation Commission that the party is now seeking workers' compensation coverage.
  • Workers' Compensation Insurance Policy: This policy provides coverage for employees in the event of work-related injuries or illnesses. It is a crucial document for those who no longer wish to maintain an exempt status.
  • Missouri Operating Agreement Form: For those establishing an LLC, the essential Missouri operating agreement form guide is crucial for outlining management procedures and member responsibilities.
  • Independent Contractor Agreement: This contract outlines the terms between a contractor and a client. It clarifies the nature of the working relationship and reinforces the independent status of the contractor.
  • Notice of Coverage: Employers must provide this notice to inform employees about their workers' compensation coverage. It includes essential details about the insurance provider and the process for filing claims.
  • Claim Form for Workers' Compensation Benefits: This form is used by employees to file a claim for benefits after a work-related injury. It initiates the process for receiving compensation for medical expenses and lost wages.
  • Employer's First Report of Injury: This report is submitted by employers to the Workers' Compensation Commission when an employee is injured on the job. It documents the incident and is vital for processing claims.
  • Exempt Status Fact Sheet: This sheet provides detailed information about the criteria for exempt status under the Administrative Workers' Compensation Act. It helps individuals and businesses understand their rights and responsibilities.

Understanding these documents can significantly simplify the process of managing workers' compensation in Oklahoma. Each form serves a specific purpose, and being familiar with them can help ensure compliance and protect the interests of both employers and independent contractors. Always consider seeking legal advice if there are uncertainties about any of these forms or your obligations under the law.

Guide to Using Oklahoma Exempt

Completing the Oklahoma Exempt form is an important step for individuals or businesses seeking to establish their exempt status under the Administrative Workers' Compensation Act. After you fill out this form, you will submit it to the Workers’ Compensation Commission, either in person, by mail, or online. Be sure to include the required filing fee. Following these steps will help ensure your application is processed smoothly.

  1. Obtain the Oklahoma Exempt form, also known as the Affidavit of Exempt Status.
  2. Fill in the "Type of Filing" section by checking either "Original Affidavit of Exempt Status" or "Renewal." If renewing, provide your Affidavit number and expiration date.
  3. In the section for the Affiant's name, write your name or the name of the individual signing the form.
  4. Indicate the business name, if applicable, in the designated space.
  5. Read and understand the Exempt Status Fact Sheet, and confirm that you have signed and attached it.
  6. Provide your contact information, including your phone number and email address.
  7. Enter your Federal Employer Identification Number (FEIN), Employer Identification Number (EIN), or Tax Identification Number (TIN) in the appropriate field.
  8. Fill in your mailing address accurately.
  9. Sign and date the form in the designated areas, affirming that the information provided is true and complete.
  10. Prepare a nonrefundable $50 filing fee, made payable to the Workers’ Compensation Commission. Note that checks will not be accepted.
  11. Submit the completed form and the filing fee to the Workers’ Compensation Commission, either in person, by mail, or online at www.ok.gov/wcc.